How To Block Crochet Projects (3 Ways)

Learning how to block crochet projects is super important! It really makes your finished pieces look amazing. This simple yet effective technique ensures even stitches, perfect shapes, and a professional-looking finish for your crochet job. Let’s check out these 3 blocking methods and see how they can make your projects look their best!

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What is Blocking in Crochet?

Blocking is the process of using moisture, and sometimes heat, to shape and size your projects. It is an essential technique for enhancing the appearance of finished crochet projects. This process softens the yarn fibers and helps reduce friction on the stitches. It makes it easier to straighten curling edges and smooth the fabric for an even finish.

The common methods include wet blocking, spray blocking, and steam blocking. These methods involve adding water or applying steam to relax the stitches, shaping the crochet fabric with pins or wires, and letting it dry to set the final shape.

What is the difference between wet blocking, spray blocking, and steam blocking?

Wet blocking:

• Involves soaking the entire crochet piece in water to relax the yarn fibers evenly.
• Ideal for crochet projects that are washable and need an even stretch, such as garments and lace.

Spray blocking:

• Involves lightly misting the piece with water evenly.
• Shorter drying time than wet blocking.

Steam blocking:

• Uses steam to moisten and soften the fabric.
• Allows you to mold your crochet piece to the desired size and shape without getting it completely wet.

Scroll down for step-by-step instructions on how to block your crochet pieces in 3 different ways and how to choose the method according to your crochet project.

Why is it Important To Block Your Crochet Projects?

Have you just completed your crochet project, only to find that it looks wonky and doesn’t seem to have been done correctly? Don’t panic or throw away all your hard work; you might just need a few simple steps to make it perfect.

Check out the crochet pieces in the photos below. After seeing the before-and-after photos, can you see how important blocking is? Before blocking, the Granny Square wasn’t truly square with sharp corners; the crochet lace just crumpled up, and the pattern was not defined; even the flat circle couldn’t stay flat. But don’t worry! All you need to do next is bring out your magic crochet blocking wand to turn them into professional masterpieces. Everything will look amazing after that!

Here are more reasons why you should block your projects:

• Makes intricate stitch patterns like crochet lace more noticeable and elegant.
• Ensures garments like sweaters, tops, or shorts fit just right and feel more comfortable.
• Molds motifs like granny squares or geometric shapes, such as circles or hexagons, into their perfect forms.
• Promises uniformity and makes it easier to join pieces if needed.

What Tools Do I Need For Blocking?

Good question! The supplies are just a few basic things. Here’s a list of essential tools you need to block your crochet projects successfully:

• Water – Depending on the blocking method you choose to use, a bucket, spray bottle, steamer, or iron with a steam function is necessary.
• The blocking mat acts as a surface to pin your projects. You can buy a crochet blocking board, blocking mats, or foam blocks made specifically for blocking crochet projects.
• Pins are essential for securing your project. It is recommended to use rust-proof T-Pins or Knit Blockers as they won’t damage your work and are strong enough to handle the weight of damp yarn.
  While not mandatory, special blocking gadgets such as Blocking Wires can be useful for specific projects. This tool helps straighten the long edges, such as blankets and shawls.
• Measuring tape ensures your project is blocked to the correct dimensions, helping you achieve an accurate finish. You can also use a ruler or a gauge ruler for a more accurate measurement.

Lastly, check out some of the everyday household items that can be used as alternatives to the basic tools mentioned above.

• You can create a DIY crochet blocking board using thick foam, a cushioned mat, or an ironing board.
• Instead of a crochet blocking board, you can also use towels as a flat surface for drying your large projects. Towels provide a soft, even surface, helping the fabric dry quickly.
• If you don’t have pins or need extra weight to keep your crochet piece flat, you can use heavy books or any heavy, flat objects to hold down the edges.

How To Block Crochet (3 Ways)

Wet Block

Essential Tools for Wet Blocking:

• Bucket
• Water
• Towel
• Blocking board
• Pins

1. Prepare the water
   Fill a clean bucket or pail with cold/room-temperature water and add some wool detergent or fabric softener (I personally prefer fabric softener). Avoid using harsh detergent or regular laundry detergent, as they can damage the yarn fibers and ruin yarn colors.
2. Soak your fabric
   Submerge your crochet piece into the water completely for about 15-20 minutes. 
3. Remove excess water
   Carefully remove your fabric from the water and squeeze out excess water.
   Place your project flat on a dry towel, roll it up gently, and press lightly to blot out the remaining moisture. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric as you would with wet laundry.
4. Block your project
   To block your project, lay it flat on a blocking board or foam mat.
   Gently stretch it out and secure the edges with pins to keep it in place and maintain its shape.
   Allow the project to air dry completely for at least a day; you may use a fan to shorten the waiting time!

Spray Block

Essential Tools for Spray Blocking:

• Spray bottle
• Water
• Blocking board
• Pins

1. Lay out your work
   Place your crochet piece on a board or mat and smooth out the edges.
2. Mist with water
   Spray your project evenly with water until it is damp.
3. Shape and Pin
   Adjust your work to its intended size and shape, ensuring the corners are properly aligned. Then, use pins to keep the project in place. 
4. Let it air dry
   Depending on the size and thickness of your project, it may take several hours to a day to completely dry.

Steam Block 

Essential Tools for Steam Blocking:

• Blocking mat or towel
• Handheld steamer or steamer iron
• Pins

1. Prepare your project
   Place your work and spread it out on a blocking mat or towel. Smooth it out, leaving no folds or creases. Use pins if needed to keep your fabric in place. 
2. Heat the steamer or iron
   We recommend using a garment steamer as it gives better control over the heat produced and is generally safer. If using an iron with a steam option, be cautious not to hold it too close to the fabric to avoid burning the yarn and damaging your work.
3. Steam your project
   Hold the steamer slightly above the crochet piece and gently move it over the entire crochet piece. The heat and moisture from the steam help to relax the yarn fibers, making it easier to reshape.
4. Shape and secure your project
   While the fabric is still damp, use pins to adjust and secure the shape of your project. This will ensure it maintains the desired form.
5. Let It Dry
   Allow the project to cool and dry completely. This will set the shape and size of your crochet piece.

Selecting a Blocking Method for Your Project

Now that you know how each crochet blocking method works, you might be wondering which method to use for your specific project.

Though the decision depends on personal preference, here are some guidelines to help you choose the best blocking technique based on the time required, the type of yarn, and its benefits.

Note: The time required is an estimation only. It can vary depending on factors like the yarn fiber, size, and thickness of the project. You should also consider external factors such as humidity and airflow in your drying area.

How to Block Granny Square

Granny squares are a common crochet project that often requires blocking. Let’s learn how to block granny squares with these simple steps: 

1. Lay your square on a foam mat or a dry towel. If you have a large project using many granny squares, you can also invest in a pegged blocking board. 
2. Gently stretch the square to the desired size, making sure it’s evenly shaped.
3. Pin each corner of the square to secure it in place.
   You may add more pins along the edges to straighten the sides and keep them from curling.
4. Lightly mist or steam your work until it’s damp. 
5. Leave the pinned squares on the blocking board until it is completely dry. 

How to Block Large Crochet Projects?

Blocking larger items such as blankets, shawls, and afghans is quite straightforward. I personally prefer wet blocking, while some opt for spray or steam blocking due to the practicality of these large projects.

Please refer to the detailed instructions above on how to work each method. Meanwhile, here are some additional tips:

• Find enough floor space and gather sufficient foam boards
• Knit blockers and Blocking Wires are more efficient and make the blocking process faster and more precise.
• If you prefer to use T-pins, that’s completely fine. Just ensure you have enough to secure all the edges of your piece properly.

FAQ About Blocking Crochet Projects

By mastering these blocking techniques, you can ensure your projects look their best with perfectly shaped and smooth finishes. Happy Blocking!

Also, try out all of these amazing crochet patterns. Many of them require shaping and can be shaped using various blocking methods too.

If you’re new to crochet or looking to brush up on the basics, be sure to check out our other posts about essential crochet techniques and tips.

• 3 Steps on How to Fasten off in Crochet
• All About Crochet Gauge and Why It Matters
• All About Yarn Weight and Why It Matters
• Crochet Hook Sizes – With Conversion Chart
• Basic Crochet Stitches